Objectives
Head and Neck cancer is the 6th most common cancer in the world, the 8th most common cancer type in the UK and the 4th most common type of cancer for men in the UK.
Despite this there is a well recognised disproportionate lack of awareness, understanding and funding into this group of diseases. Compounding this, this area of cancer is unique in that it includes more than 30 different cancers that can affect 14 separate physical sites in the body, making it a very complex area to define and understand.
With education and funding disproportionately lower for these cancers and the rates and complexity of incidence increasing, Head and Neck Cancers in the UK are reaching crisis point.
The Head and Neck Cancer Coalition is working to ensure that there is adequate:
- support for patients and families.
- funding for research into new treatment approaches.
- understanding of post treatment support and rehabilitation.
- awareness and education of signs, symptoms, treatment options, post treatment support and other services and how to access them.
- alignment so that healthcare and government policy stays up to date with best practice and /or supporting healthcare teams as best as possible.
- support for innovation and exchange of ideas for how to improve the patient experience and pathway management.
Research
To promote, coordinate, facilitate and undertake research into Head and Neck Cancers and provide mechanisms through which the outcomes of this can be shared
Awareness and Education
To speak with one voice, collaborating and promoting aligned, cohesive and clear messages so that the general public, high risk communities and PHPs are aware of symptoms, treatment routes and available support.
Patient and Carer Support
To offer support at the point the patient or caregiver needs it and by whatever means required.
Policy
To actively promote Head and Neck Cancer so that it is a recognised part of the UK's Cancer Plan.
Patient Pathway
To promote and support service delivery model innovation and improvement within the NHS.